What you need to know about fire pits

One of the questions we hear from homebuyers is, "Can I build a fire pit in my backyard?"

The answer is generally yes, but the City of Bismarck has rules designed to keep outdoor fires safe. The follow information applies to one-and …

Bismarck Home Buying Guide

Many homebuyers focus on the purchase price of a home, but even small changes in mortgage rates can have a significant impact on both monthly payments and buying power.

Using national data and a typical U.S. home price, Zillow recently compared how changes in mortgage …

Avoid Real Estate Scams 

Buying or selling a home involves large sums of money and fast-moving decisions—making it a prime target for scammers. Fraud attempts are becoming more sophisticated, often blending seamlessly into real transactions and catching even careful buyers and sellers off guard. Understanding how these scams …

(Based on NAR’s Consumer Guide)

What Is a Home Inspection?

• A professional evaluation of a home’s condition and safety before closing.

• Covers structure, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and more.

• Can include tests for mold, radon, lead paint, and asbestos.

Are Inspections Required?

• Not mandatory, but buyers often add inspections …

One of the biggest financial decisions you'll make is whether to rent or buy a home. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your lifestyle, finances, and long-term goals. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide which path makes the most sense for you.

When Renting Makes Sense …

When buying a home, many buyers are introduced to the concept of a home warranty. It’s not the same as homeowners insurance, and understanding what it covers can help you decide if it’s a smart addition to your real estate investment.

What Is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty …

Entering into a real estate contract is a serious commitment—especially in North Dakota, where property laws are clear about buyer and seller obligations. But what happens if one party defaults on the agreement?

1. Legal Definition of Default
In real estate, a "default" typically means failing to perform duties …

Entering into a real estate contract is a serious commitment—especially in North Dakota, where property laws are clear about buyer and seller obligations. But what happens if one party defaults on the agreement?

1. Legal Definition of Default
In real estate, a "default" typically means failing to perform duties …

At first glance, a townhome and a townhome condo might look exactly the same—often attached side-by-side, offering more space than a typical apartment. But when it comes to ownership and responsibilities, there are some key differences every buyer should know.

Townhome (Fee Simple Ownership):
When you buy a traditional townhome …

If you're buying or selling real estate, one crucial step that often gets overlooked is the land survey. Whether you're making a new home purchase, planning to build, or simply want to know exactly where your property boundaries lie, getting a professional land survey can save you time …